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Moving to Cardiff, UK | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Moving to Cardiff, England

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 11, 2024

Summary: Many expats move to Cardiff, UK for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and excellent quality of life. The city is known for its lively music and arts scene, as well as its many parks and green spaces. Cardiff also offers a wide range of employment opportunities, making it an attractive destination for those looking to start a new career. Additionally, the city is well-connected to the rest of the UK, with excellent transport links to other major cities. With its friendly locals, affordable cost of living, and abundance of activities, Cardiff is an ideal destination for expats looking to make a new home.

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What do I need to know before moving to Cardiff?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cardiff, they said:

"Cardiff is the capital of Wales and is a vibrant and diverse city with plenty to offer. It is a great place to live for expats, with a strong economy, excellent transport links, and a wide range of cultural activities. Expats should be aware that Cardiff has a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The cost of living in Cardiff is relatively low compared to other UK cities, and there are plenty of affordable housing options. Expats should also be aware that Cardiff is a multicultural city, with a large Welsh-speaking population. English is widely spoken, but it is useful to learn some Welsh phrases to help you get around. Finally, expats should be aware that Cardiff is a very safe city, with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere," explained one expat living in Cardiff, England.

How do I find a place to live in Cardiff?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Cardiff is to use online resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and Gumtree. These websites allow you to search for properties in the area and filter your results based on your budget, desired location, and other criteria. Additionally, you can contact local estate agents who can help you find a suitable property. You can also look for rental properties in local newspapers and on notice boards in the area. Finally, you can ask friends and family if they know of any available properties," commented one expat who made the move to Cardiff.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Cardiff?

"Expat homes and apartments in Cardiff are typically modern and spacious, with plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments are located in the city centre, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. The apartments often have balconies or terraces, and some have access to communal gardens. The homes and apartments are usually well-equipped with modern appliances and furnishings, and many have access to parking and other amenities," said one expat in Cardiff.

What is the average cost of housing in Cardiff?

If you are thinking about moving to Cardiff, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Cardiff is generally quite high. Prices for rental properties and buying a home can vary greatly depending on the area and type of property. Generally, rental prices range from around £500 to £1,500 per month, while the average cost of buying a home in Cardiff is around £200,000," said one expat in Cardiff.

Should I buy or rent a home in Cardiff?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Cardiff, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Cardiff can be a great investment, as the city is known for its strong economy and vibrant culture. However, it is important to consider your financial situation and lifestyle before making a decision. Renting can be a great option if you are looking for flexibility and don't want to commit to a long-term mortgage. On the other hand, buying a home can provide you with more stability and the potential for long-term financial gain. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Cardiff, UK should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Cardiff.

What should I pack when moving to Cardiff?

We asked people living in Cardiff to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Cardiff, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the weather can be quite cold and wet. It is also a good idea to bring an umbrella and waterproof clothing, as rain is common in the area. Additionally, it is important to bring comfortable shoes, as Cardiff is a very walkable city. Other items to consider packing include a first aid kit, a flashlight, and any necessary medications. Finally, it is important to bring any important documents, such as passports, visas, and birth certificates," said one expat in Cardiff.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Cardiff?

We asked people in Cardiff if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette when visiting Cardiff. It is considered impolite to be late for social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as Cardiff is a fairly conservative city. It is also important to be respectful of the Welsh language, as many locals are bilingual and may be offended if you do not make an effort to learn some basic phrases. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local drinking culture, as public intoxication is frowned upon. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local religious beliefs and customs, as Cardiff is a diverse city with many different faiths," said one expat in Cardiff.

Why do people move to Cardiff?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Cardiff, they responded:

"Cardiff is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, diverse population, and excellent quality of life. The city is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and lively nightlife. It is also home to a number of universities, making it an ideal place for those looking to further their education. Additionally, Cardiff is a great place to work, with a strong economy and plenty of job opportunities. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in the UK, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate. Finally, Cardiff is a great place to raise a family, with excellent schools, plenty of leisure activities, and a safe and friendly environment," commented one expat who moved to Cardiff.

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Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
Connect

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How are healthcare services Cardiff?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cardiff, they replied:

"Cardiff offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The city is home to a number of hospitals, including the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff Royal Infirmary, and St David's Hospital. These hospitals provide a range of services, from emergency care to specialist treatments. In addition, Cardiff has a number of community health centres, which provide primary care services such as GP appointments, health checks, and vaccinations. The city also has a number of walk-in centres, which offer urgent care services for minor illnesses and injuries. Finally, Cardiff has a number of mental health services, including counselling, therapy, and support groups," commented one expat who moved to Cardiff.

What are medical services in Cardiff like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cardiff, they replied:

"Cardiff offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The city is home to a number of hospitals, including the University Hospital of Wales, which is the largest hospital in Wales. Additionally, there are a number of private clinics and medical centers located throughout the city. The city also has a number of walk-in centers and pharmacies, providing convenient access to medical care. Cardiff also has a number of specialist services, such as cancer care, mental health services, and sexual health services," replied one expat when asked about moving to Cardiff.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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